Syracuse vs. Tennessee Preview, Week 1

The time has come. Week one of the 2025 college football season is here, meaning the debut of the 2025 Syracuse football team. Syracuse opens up 2025 with SEC powerhouse, #24 Tennessee, in the Aflac Kickoff at 12:00 p.m. ET. The buildup to this game has been intense for both teams. For Syracuse, the mission is to replace all of their NFL talent, especially on offense. As for the Vols, they are coming off their first-ever playoff appearance, but also the infamous Nico Iamaleava holdout; now they look to succeed with their new backfield. For only the fourth time in the two schools’ history, here’s the preview for Syracuse vs. Tennessee.

Syracuse vs. Tennessee Preview

Little History, but One Sided

Since 1966, the two orange schools have faced each other only three times. In those three matchups, the Vols have won all three, most recently in 2001 in Knoxville, winning 33-9. This will be the second time the two have faced off in a neutral setting, first playing in Jacksonville in 1966.

As for the two teams in recent openers, Syracuse has won their last four openers, while Tennessee has won its last five. Both teams are coming off 10-win seasons and four NFL draft picks. On top of that, they both have top 25 recruiting classes in 2026. Lastly, both had to navigate the offseason after contract disputes. For Syracuse, it was Trebor Pena, and for Tennessee, it was Iamaleava. Now both teams have their rosters set, so here are the keys to the game, key matchups, and final thoughts.

Angeli vs. Aguilar

The two quarterbacks in Saturday’s blockbuster have had vastly different paths leading up to gameday, but both have earned their spot. The quarterbacks in question are former Notre Dame and current Syracuse quarterback Steve Angeli, and former Appalachian State and current Tennessee quarterback Joey Aguilar. Both quarterbacks were named the starters just over a week ago, and now they have to face each other.

Less than a year ago, Angeli helped the Irish make the national championship game. Now, he’s starting for only the second time in his collegiate career against a ranked opponent. With a settled playing style and a veteran mindset, Angeli plays like a multi-year starter. If he can establish a number one target on Saturday, he could lead the Orange to an upset. An underrated runner, expect him to use his legs to succeed on third and manageables. His completion rate is what stands out. In two years, he has a 72% completion rate. Lastly, it will be interesting to see if Coach Fran Brown and his staff change their scheme for Angeli. Remember, last year Syracuse threw the ball the most on first downs in the nation. Will Angeli have the same passing output? Or will the tempo change?

For Aguilar, the journey has been nothing but resilience and hard work. From grinding it out at Diablo Valley Community College for two years to lighting it up in the mountains at Appalachian State for another two, his college football journey now ends in Knoxville. It wasn’t supposed to end in Knoxville, but instead in Los Angeles. Nevertheless, after being “traded” for Iamaleava, Aguilar has found his new home. He offers a strong arm, good size, and doesn’t hold back in the pocket. Still, for the Vols to win this game and succeed this season, he has to limit the turnovers. Last season, he had a nation-leading 14 interceptions. His stats took a slight dip last season, but he still threw for over 3,000 yards. Just like Angeli, can Aguilar establish a number one option? Finally, can he control the tempo and not let the Orange defense speed him up?

Keys to the Game

How Much of a Factor is Inexperience?

Both teams lost their quarterback, starting running back, and top three pass targets. Now, both teams are playing unproven but highly valued players. For Tennessee, the youngest position is receiver, as they are going to start redshirt freshman Braylon Staley and sophomore Mike Matthews. For Syracuse, their youngest position is corner. They are playing true freshman Demetres Samuel Jr. and sophomore Davien Kerr. The battle between Tennessee’s receivers and Syracuse’s defensive backs will dictate the pace and the outcome of the game.

What is Syracuse’s Game Plan on Offense

When you lose the centerpiece of your offense, it’s hard to replicate it. With McCord gone, the offense may change its approach and tempo. Syracuse was one of the fastest teams in the nation when it came to moving down the field. Now, the approach could slow down and focus more on the run. Running backs Yasin Willis and Will Nixon are the key to making the Orange a successful running team, along with the new offensive line that consists of five transfers.

Key Players

Star Thomas

Last year, Tennessee found its identity running the ball with star back Dylan Sampson. This year, they look to do the same with former Duke running back Star Thomas. Thomas broke out last season for the Blue Devils, rushing for 871 yards and seven touchdowns. Now Thomas joins an offense that averaged 225 rushing yards a game and had the leading rusher in the SEC.

Gary Bryant III

Syracuse’s biggest search this offseason was for a field general in the second level after they lost veteran Marlowe Wax. In response to the loss, they would acquire former South Dakota linebacker Gary Bryant III. Only a redshirt junior this year, he excelled last season, finishing with 104 tackles (fourth in the Missouri Valley Conference). Bryant now looks to take his game to an even higher level, as he is currently rated the second-highest graded linebacker on PFF.

As it currently stands, Tennessee is a 13.5-point favorite. No pick this week for me, but I do believe it hit the under (O/U 51.5).